Mother's Day: how to celebrate all the maternal figures in our lives?

What if this year, we broadened Mother's Day to include all the maternal figures around us? What if we paid tribute to all the women who have left their mark on our life's journey? This is a call to celebrate those who raised us, supported us, and understood us. Whether they embody comfort, strength, listening, or gentleness, discover our symbolic gift ideas to say thank you to them.

Who are these maternal figures we want to celebrate?

Of course, the figure of the mother is the first one we think of. You may be lucky enough to have a loving mother who raised you with great tenderness. Let us also spare a thought for those for whom this day is more difficult: those who have not known that love, those who have lost the connection, or whose mother is no longer here.

But whether we still have our mother or not, the maternal figure takes different forms throughout life. These are the women who guide us during early childhood, accompany us on our educational journey, or share our precious friendships.

There are also aunts, sisters, godmothers, grandmothers, adoptive or chosen mothers, and even mentors met at work. This list is unique to each person. They are all inspiring women, and it is them we would like to honour for Mother's Day.

6 symbolic gift ideas and rituals to honour them

These women offer us a magnificent lesson in sisterhood. When we become parents ourselves, we realise the impact of this kindness that passes from generation to generation.

How to celebrate these very special bonds? Here are some inspirations for original Mother's Day gifts, focused on meaning and sharing:

• Create a memory journal: Fill it throughout the year with little notes, cinema tickets, photos from your outings and your biggest laughs together.
• Establish a ritual for two: Plan an activity just for the two of you (a restaurant, an exhibition, a coffee moment) on a regular basis.
• Give a personalised photo album: A beautiful object to leaf through, annotated with your shared memories. (Decoration tip: slip in a lovely photo at each new encounter!)
• Write a gratitude letter: Put your admiration and appreciation down on paper. It is often the most touching of gifts.
• Plant a tree or a plant: A living and lasting symbol of your bond.
• Give a meaningful book: A beautiful book or exhibition catalogue, personalised with a dedication inside.

Looking after those for whom Mother's Day is difficult

Let us remember that for some, this period is synonymous with pain or sadness. If someone close to you is not in the mood to celebrate, it may be the occasion to suggest an outing that has nothing to do with motherhood to take their mind off things.

To conclude, sisterhood and maternal love — biological or not — would deserve daily attention. What if we gave ourselves an ocean of love and gratitude throughout the year?